For the first time since 1991, teen pregnancy is on the rise in the United States. In the years between 1991 and 2005 teen pregnancies had been steadily declining. An annual report, published by the Federal Interagency Forum on Child and Family Statistics, revealed that the frequency of teen pregnancies had increased by 4% between 2005 and 2006. (These are the most current statistics available). The 4% increase in the teen pregnancy rate is cause for concern among health professionals and the parents of teenagers.
There is no singular reason why we’re experience a rise in teen pregnancy; there are a number of contributing factors, including:
Less supervision by adults – Since most parents are required to work to keep a roof over their families’ heads, young adults are being less supervised than ever.
Societal acceptance - You can barely pass a newsstand without reading about the latest unmarried teen celebrity who has become pregnant.
Glamorization – Along with acceptance by young Hollywood (and others) comes the notion that being pregnant and a young mother is “cool”.
Parents should take comfort in the fact that research shows there is much they can do to help their kids pass into adulthood pregnancy- free. Here is a review of recommended actions you can take to help your teen avoid unwanted pregnancy:
Be a good role model, first and foremost. Be clear about your own attitudes towards sex before you attempt to convey them to your teen. Do you think it is okay for kids under 18 to engage in sexual activity? Do you think abstinence is reasonable? Answering these types of questions yourself will help to clarify your own values and attitudes.
Don’t just have “THE TALK” about sex. Many parents are uncomfortable discussing sexual matters with their kids, so they avoid it altogether or present limited information on one occasion only. Parents need to have an ongoing dialogue with their kids about sex and sexuality. Don’t lecture; be open to questions (kids are inquisitive) and don’t be afraid to say you don’t have the answer to every question. Parents should speak to sons and daughters in age-appropriate terms from an early age on into early adulthood.
Supervise and monitor your children - It is important to establish rules, curfews and standards of expected behavior. Know what your kids are doing between the time they get home from school and when you arrive home from work. Get specific answers – find out where they are going when they go ‘hang-out’ with their friends.
Get to know your kids’ friends (and their families) – Adolescents are more influenced by their peers than any other age group. Therefore, you may want to know they are spending time with kids and families who share similar values to yours.
Encourage group activities rather than one-on-one dating – Teens are much less likely to become pregnant if you discourage early, frequent, steady dating. Let your kids know when you will allow them to begin to date; tell them well in advance. Some parents may feel 16 is an appropriate age to begin dating; you may feel better about waiting until your son or daughter turns 18. Remember, you are the expert on your own child; only you can judge their level of maturity.
nsist your children date others in the same age group. It is unwise to allow a daughter to date a boy who is significantly older; the risk of teen pregnancy is greatly increased when girls are allowed to date “men”.
Demonstrate that you value education highly. Show your teens there are many life options other than pregnancy and parenthood.
The Media – know what your kids are watching, reading and listening to. Put “parental controls” in place on televisions and computers if necessary.
Developing and nurturing a warm, caring and open relationship with your children may be the very best form of birth control you can provide.
